Quiltpiecer

Hot Air Balloon Adventure – Part 2 – Video

2011-06-07T17:10:00.001-07:00

In my previous post, I wrote about the great time DH and I had at the Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival this past Friday and Saturday. But the REAL adventure took place on Sunday …

We realized we didn’t really need to buy tickets to see the balloons so early Sunday morning we returned to the same vacant lot in Temecula. There were already about 3-4 balloons preparing to launch.

One pilot in particular was struggling with his balloon. Turns out his crew had not shown up. Although he had no clue what to do, DH offered to help him out.

It’s a lot of hard work getting these puppies up! Double-click on a picture, and you’ll see DH struggling with the rope as Panda bear becomes upright.

If you look closely at this last picture, you’ll see a group of folks standing around the basket, which sports a “Happy Birthday” sign. It is easy to assume this group is preparing to board the basket for a fun-filled experience.

Imagine his surprise when the pilot Tim told DH to jump in for the ride of his life! Turns out the group was only there taking pictures and not there for a ride. DH was so excited, as much as any child visiting Disneyland for the first time!

Up, up and away in my hot air balloon!

Here is a slide show of some great pictures he took.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

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They rode for about an hour before landing in another vacant lot.

I drove to the landing site where I picked them up and took the pilot back to his original launch site to retrieve his vehicle.

Deflating the Panda is almost as much work as inflating it! Here’s a short clip …

DH is still walking on air!

DH and Tim

www.panda-moniumballoonflights.com

Next … Albuquerque, NM for the International Balloon Fiesta in October!

Ballooning … Instead of Quilting!

2011-06-05T18:21:00.001-07:00

About 6 months ago, DH bought a brand new fancy SLR Canon camera, and photography has become his new passion … along with hiking and mountain climbing. I don’t usually accompany him on his extreme adventures, but lately we’ve been taking weekend trips to local communities and events.

This weekend was no exception, and we spent it at the Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival. This was our first ever hot air balloon festival/experience, and we had a great time watching the balloons and taking photographs.

The festival had four main components: wine tasting, food court, entertainment (concerts) and hot air balloon rides. Unfortunately, at $200 a person, a balloon ride was a *little* out of our price range.

The festival started Friday evening and included a “balloon glow”. To create the glow, balloon pilots ignite their burners simultaneously which causes the colorful balloon envelopes to glow against the dark skies. We’d never been so close to a hot air balloon so this was really exciting. I love how the balloons remind me of quilts. Look at the ones with the Bargello and chevron designs … so pretty!

Saturday morning we arrived just before 6:00 a.m. with excitement and anticipation, expecting to see a mass ascension of balloons. Unfortunately, the weather and wind were not cooperating and the launch was cancelled … sort of.

This annual festival takes place on Lake Skinner which is part of the Riverside County Regional Park, a habitat conservation area for the Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat. The direction the wind was blowing would require the balloons to land in this protected area, so the launch from the county park was nixed.

We knew something was up when we saw a mass exodus of "balloon” vehicles. We quickly left the park area and discovered the balloonists were launching off-site from nearby vacant lots or one of the many wineries in the area.

It was awesome to see the balloons and pilots up close and personal! It was so exciting to see the balloon take shape from a flat envelope to a beautiful globe, and slowly float into the sky … so soft and gentle.

By 9:30 a.m. most of the balloons had landed and it was time for breakfast! Since we’d bought tickets for the festival thinking we had to pay admission to see the balloons, we went back to walk around, visit with the vendors and listen to some music.

They also had a “petting zoo” (more like an exhibit), with some very interesting residents. Here I am with Mabel the baby camel … love her big brown eyes and long lashes!

My favorite, however, has to be this albino baby wallaby. She’s only 3 months old and as cute as a button! She’d just been fed her bottle so she was very sleepy and oblivious to the commotion around her.

As much fun as we had yesterday, the REAL adventure took place this morning. It was a once-in-a-lifetime RPRT adventure … one that can only happen when “you’re in the right place at the right time”!

Part 2 to be continued tomorrow …

Memorial Day 2011: Today We Honor Our Heroes

2011-05-30T19:52:00.001-07:00

Today is the day we honor our heroes. Let’s remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and for the freedom we enjoy every day.

Let’s not forget that there are still tens of thousands of our young men and women who continue to be in harm's way in Afghanistan and Iraq. Let us pray that they come back home soon.

DH and I spent Saturday and Sunday in San Diego, just a 2-hour drive from our home. Yesterday, we visited Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery in Point Loma. We were there in the morning and not many other folks were around.

Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery includes those Veterans of WW I, WW II, Korea, VietNam and the Gulf wars. Also here are those who fell in the battle of San Pasqual in 1846, as well as victims of the USS Bennington explosion in 1905.

And except for the wind, it was a beautiful sunny day. Because of the strong wind, many of the flags had blown down to the ground. I could not in good conscience let this go. So DH and I spent a few minutes going up the rows picking the flags off the ground and reinserting them in the proper sites.

The rows of white headstones that mark the gravesites make their way down the 77.5 acres of gentle grassy slopes on both the ocean and San Diego Bay sides, with stunning views.

Please enjoy this short video and let us never forget.

Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery–Memorial Day 2011

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

2011-02-14T22:41:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone had a day filled with lots of love and happiness!

Happy Birthday to My Wonderful Daughter

2011-01-16T22:07:00.001-08:00

It was 37 years ago today that DD was born on a rainy day. I was six months pregnant when I went into premature labor. When DD was born, she weighed in at 2 lbs. and measured only 12 inches. The joy of her birth was marred by fear and anxiety due to her early birth. But as the days and then the weeks went by, she grew bigger and stronger until she left the hospital after three months, weighing in at 5 lbs.

I was only 20 years old and had no clue what I was doing! Sometimes ignorance is bliss. That’s me in the picture above … look at how tiny DD’s hands and arms were. In the picture above, DD is about 3 months old and almost ready to come home.

Technology back then was not what it is today. Although she was a strong baby I believe her survival was a miracle! I also thank the doctors and nurses who took such good care of her. I visited every single day DD was in the hospital (2x a day on weekends); and I got to know her nurses very well. They were her angels!

Nurse Lishy – Daytime Nurse

Nurse “Granny” – Nighttime Nurse

Nurse Galleon – Midnight Nurse

Because I worked full-time, I was not able to visit during the daytime, so my favorite nurse was “Granny”. Everyone called her “Granny” and I’m sure she once told me her name, but I don’t recall it. She was wonderful and taught me how to bathe and take care of DD.

On a few occasions, I was able to visit during the day and Nurse Lishy was always there. Such a caring and kind nurse, she also taught me to care of my new baby.

And on a few rare occasions, I also saw Nurse Galleon, usually on weekends. But my folks knew Nurse Galleon very well. My mom worked the swing shift, and my dad would always pick her up. So, every night just about midnight, my parents would visit their first grandchild before heading home. They adored their Little Star.

A few months old

A toddler ~ I’m sure Grandpa is behind the camera!

DD is now a busy mom to five; but she will always be my little girl. After all, it was only yesterday …

Happy Birthday, Darling Daughter! Love you much!

Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn 2010

2010-12-31T21:06:00.001-08:00

Festival of Lights 2010

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As 2010 comes to an end, I want to share with you a few pictures DH took a couple weeks ago when we visited the Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn in Riverside, CA. This was our first time ever at this famous event, although we’ve lived in Riverside County for 14 years!

I think DH took some great pictures, but you really need to be there to really experience the excitement and joy of this spectacular event.

With more than three and a half million twinkling lights, the Riverside Festival of Lights presented by the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is the most dazzling outdoor holiday light spectacle south of the North Pole.

We spent several hours just walking around and marveling at all the wonderful holiday decorations and thousands of lights, not to mention the carriage rides and even reindeers!

The event began the Friday after Thanksgiving and ends Sunday, January 2; and if you missed it, not to worry … there’s always next year! For more info, click here.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy New Year’s eve as we say farewell to the first decade of the millennium …

MERRY CHRISTMAS … From Our Family to Yours

2010-12-25T15:33:00.001-08:00

A Sunny Christmas

Every year at Christmas time
There's not a sign of snow.
Instead we spend our yuletide days
In the sun's warm cheery glow.

We have the best of Christmas things,
The lights, the gifts, the bells,
(And "snowbirds" who arrive en masse
To fill our beach hotels.)

The glorious weather fits right in
With our happy Christmas mood,
And we can also walk and run
Without having to be snowshoed.

So don't feel bad for your California friends
Who have no snow or ice.
We think our sunny Christmas here
Is a holiday paradise!

By Joanna Fuchs

Fall Colors and A Nature Walk

2010-12-14T10:06:00.001-08:00

I just love the colors of fall! The reds, browns, and greens are my favorite. This picture was taken in front of my house looking down the street. Who says we don’t have seasons in So. California?

DH bought himself a new toy, a Canon Rebel; and ever since, he has been taking pictures galore! He’s still learning how to use it, but I think he’s doing pretty good so far. What do you think?

Forest Falls

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Click on the picture collage to view all pictures

This past Sunday we went to Forest Falls and Big Bear in San Bernardino County. It was so beautiful and peaceful, and a welcome change from the hustle & bustle of the holidays. I’d like to share some pictures and short video with you. Please relax and enjoy!

Forest Falls 2010

Shutterfly FREE Photo Cards … Ends Today!

2010-12-10T12:11:00.001-08:00

Have you ever used Shutterfly? I have heard wonderful things about them, but haven’t had a chance to try them out yet. Well, today is my lucky day because they are giving bloggers 50 FREE photo cards just for sharing about their site! But HURRY because promotion ends TODAY 12/10!

Here are some of the Christmas photo cards that are available (out of 382 options!)

Love the collage prints they have! These are perfect for families with growing kids to capture shots from throughout the year in one card!

I also love the full photo cards they have. Perfect for the recipient to leave on their fridge year round!

Some of their cards are so unique! You are not going to find a photo card at Wal-mart that looks like this!

These are great for outdoor scenes. Hubby and I are going to the mountains this weekend; and if we get any great pics, I would use this card! It’d be perfect!

They also have beautiful calendars …

and great birthday invitations … Isn’t this one adorable!

Looking for an awesome personalized gift for your child? Check out the customizable Center Stage books – you take a picture of your child and they plug it in throughout the book!

So check them out today! You might just find a great card idea or a calendar you can make for someone on your list.

Thanks, Shutterfly, for the great promotion!

Marbleous Ornaments with Acrylic Paints

2010-12-09T21:14:00.001-08:00

Is it true that Christmas is just about 2 weeks away? Yikes! Now that my kids are older and in college, I decided everyone is getting gift cards. The grandkids are out of state and it’s easier for me to send them gift cards than to try to figure out their sizes or current passion. That means not much shopping to do, so I continue to work on my decorating projects. I’ve accepted the fact that this will be on-going until the end of the month!

Here’s a project I just finished. Although it’s not quilt related, it was fun and easy to make so I thought I’d share it with you.

It’s hard to believe that these beautiful ornaments are so very easy to create … and inexpensive! A few years ago, I made several to give as gifts to co-workers and everyone loved them!

Just pour acrylic paints into clear ornaments and swirl away. Once you pour the paints into the bulb, you can shake it for quick coverage. But I like how the paints blend and marbleize over time, so I rotate the ornament every few hours over a day. The color combinations are endless and every ornament is unique.

Just add ribbon and … voila! A beautiful gift that won’t break the budget.

My book club is having its annual holiday party this Saturday, and these are perfect for our gift exchange.

I kept the packaging simple and I already had most of the items on hand, so my 2010 costs for 10 gifts were minimal … $4.00! Can’t beat that! For a free tutorial, click here.

Merry Christmas … Happy Holidays to all!

Holiday Decorations … Christmas Tree & Mantel Work-In-Progress

2010-12-04T21:39:00.001-08:00

Now that the Thanksgiving Holiday is over, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas … I know some folks started their holiday shopping and decorating before Thanksgiving.

We put up our Christmas tree this past Tuesday, and I can’t believe I had it up before December … a first for me! Over the past several years, I have accumulated so many Christmas decorations; and I have tons of bins and boxes. When I was working, I never bothered to go through each container. I grabbed what was at hand and just bought what I needed.

Now that I’m retired, I decided to take ALL the boxes down and go through each and every one of them! I’m keeping things simpler this year and have decided to downsize my collection of decorations.

The family room is where I started and you can see that my tree is up and I may still add some finishing touches. My mantel is also a work-in-progress, but I do want to share my most recent Christmas décor thrifty finds.

I found this pair of hurricane candle holders at the GW at $5.99 for the pair. I just added a $1 candle to each … voila! I also found the pair of moss-covered reindeer at the GW … I just love them! The brass stocking hangers were a GW find several years ago.

I took a picture with the lights out because I love how the tree looks with all the pretty lights and now I have the two lighted candles. I wish it would get COLD so I can light the fireplace … how pretty would that be?

The good, the bad … and now the ugly! I was working on the mantel and just about to put my collection of Santa's on the hearth, when I discovered a very dirty fireplace. Grrrr! Now I have to clean that out before I can continue … I’ll post more pictures once I’m finished.

Here’s a picture of the tree in my family room. It’s very simple with all red glass ornaments, but it is decorated with many special trims that the kids made and my collection of Hallmark ornaments. That’s a media niche where I’ll eventually put my Nativity scene.

A parade of some of my favorite ornaments ~ BTW, most all of my Hallmark ornaments are from either the thrift store or garage sales:

Animated Bambi Musical Ornament

Patriotic World Peace Ornament

Raggedy Ann and Andy

Mr. Monopoly ~ We love to play!

I love Maxine! Push the cash register drawer and you’ll hear one of several Maxine-isms

I Love Lucy ~ Yes, we do! We watch reruns everyday!

I love coffee! My daughter and I have shared special moments over cups of Starbucks. She gifted me this Starbucks ornament.

A Jim Shore Santa from BFF Brenda

The Lion King is one of my all-time favorites

Coca Cola Santa ~ 1 of 3

A trio of Santas

The lovable Mickey Mouse

I’ve started working on the Christmas tree in the living room, and I’ll also be putting up a small tabletop tree in the upstairs family room. I haven’t even started with the outside! It’ll be Christmas by the time I finish! Did I say I was keeping things simpler this year?

Be sure to come back because I’ll be posting about the quilty treasures I found at the Salvation Army yesterday at unbelievable prices!

A Furry Visitor and Overnight Guest

2010-12-03T09:11:00.001-08:00

A couple days ago we had an unexpected guest ~ meet “Cat Doe #1” …

Last Tuesday evening, I was in my driveway taking in the groceries from my car when I spotted an “animal” in the middle of street; it appeared to be eating something. At this point I have to say that I have very bad vision and my eyeglasses need to be updated – which means I couldn’t tell what it was.

“It” was not a dog and “it” appeared to be too big for a household cat. I continued taking in my groceries, but with a wary eye toward this animal. At some point, a passing car startled “it” and “it” ran onto the sidewalk two houses away. This animal looked a little too big, and I started thinking “it” might be a bobcat. I really began panicking when “it” started sauntering towards me and my little Chihuahua Mimi … I’m thinking its hungry and Mimi looks like a delicious little morsel! As I was tripping over my bags in a rush to get Mimi, “it” got closer and started meowing. What a relief when I realized it was just a big tom cat!

He came right up to me and when he let me pick him up, I could tell he was (or had been) someone’s pet. My suspicions were confirmed when he followed me into my house and quickly made himself at home. He also did not appear to be malnourished and was not interested in the cat food we offered him.

My three dogs came right away to meet this new guest, and after a few sniffs here and there, quickly lost interest. On the other hand, my cat Checkers was not very happy at all!! “Cat Doe” was not fazed by any of it and decided to take the grand tour, visiting every nook and cranny.

I was too busy with dinner and too tired to deal with all of this, so DS#2 and I decided that he would stay until the following morning. Then we would canvas the neighborhood looking for his owner/s. As it turns out, we had a busy schedule the following day and didn’t really have the time, so we let him outside and we left to do some shopping.

When we returned a few hours later, “Cat Doe” was nowhere to be found. We hope he’s returned to his home and anxious family, but part of us keeps hoping he’ll come back. And, if he does, we’ll be here waiting … for this sweet and lovable guy!

Veteran’s Day In Honor of Fallen RPD Officer Bonaminio

2010-11-11T23:11:00.001-08:00

Photo by Mark Zaleski/The Press-Enterprise

Yet, another law enforcement officer has been killed in the line of duty. This evening DS#2 and I attended a candlelight vigil for fallen Riverside Police Officer Ryan Bonaminio, who was shot this past Sunday by a cold-blooded killer as he pleaded for his life.

DS#2 writes a message on a poster board for the family before the start of the candlelight vigil.

Photo by Mark Zaleski/The Press-Enterprise

The “In the Spirit of Ryan” vigil was attended by hundreds of friends, family and community members who gathered to show their respect and support.

Officer Bonaminio was also a U.S. Army veteran who served two tours in Iraq with a military police unit and was the first Riverside police officer to be killed in the line of duty since January 2001. It was only fitting that we should honor him on this Veteran’s Day.

Photo by Mark Zaleski/The Press-Enterprise

The man who killed Officer Bonaminio has spent 11 out of the past 19 years in prison and has a long violent past. Why was he even out in the streets and when will this madness stop? Maybe now he will be put away forever. Why did Officer Bonaminio have to die to make this happen? Once this guy is put away for good, the community will be safer without him … thank you, Officer Bonaminio, for your bravery and sacrifice. The world is a better and safer place because of you …

Photo Riverside Police Dept.

Carnival Paradise Cruise ~ Ensenada, Baja, Mexico

2010-10-26T16:10:00.001-07:00

DH and I had such a fun time on our cruise to Baja, Mexico this past weekend! It was our first cruise, but I don’t think it’ll be our last. For the most part, the weather was absolutely gorgeous -- a little cool in the mornings and evenings, but sunny and warm during the day. There was also the threat of rain late Sunday, but it never dampened our fun.

Everything went smoothly and we had no problems at all – except that I mistakenly deleted all my pictures before uploading them to my computer! My first instinct was to cry; but I quickly recovered because I knew DH and my BFFs had taken many pictures and knew they would share.

Day One, Friday: Embarkation, Long Beach, California – We got to the parking structure about 2:30 pm and had to walk down the 4 flights of stairs because the elevator was broken. No problem. Because we had registered online, we already had our boarding pass and luggage tags. We quickly gave our luggage to the porter and made our way to check in. We had to wait in line for a short while, but it was not bad at all. We received our “Sail & Sign” card (it’s not only your room key, but it’s also linked to your credit card for on-board purchases); and before we knew it, we were on board the ship! It was such a smooth process.

By then, we were starving so we quickly found our way to the Lido Deck (10th floor) and a wonderful buffet of all you can eat at the Paris Restaurant! By the time we finished eating, we’d made contact with my traveling buddies, Viv & Lori, who were sharing a room right next to us. We had interior rooms on the 5th floor because we signed up late for the cruise, but we were all just happy to be on board!

At 4:30 pm, everyone was required to attend a “Safety Briefing” – this is where they cover the emergency procedures with life jackets and life boats. And, finally at 5:30 pm, we set sail and left the port of Long Beach. DH and I were like little kids just running around the ship and taking in all the sights and action. What a beautiful sunset to see!

We wandered around the ship for awhile … there are so many things to see and do! There are several restaurants, a casino, shops, jogging track, pools/Jacuzzis, bars, music lounges … even a showroom!

At 8:00 pm, we made our way to the Elation Restaurant for a late sit-down dinner. We were pre-assigned our dinner time and table; and it remained the same for the rest of the cruise. Dinner was fabulous! Oh, did I mention, it’s all you can eat. Sometime towards the end of dinner, all the servers got together to entertain us as they danced to “YMCA” by the Village People. It was hilarious!

By 10:30 pm, we were beat and called it a night. Our first night ever sleeping out at sea … we slept like logs!

Day Two, Saturday: Shore Excursion, Ensenada, Baja Mexico – By the time we woke up the next morning, we were already docked in Ensenada. DH is an early riser, so he was up and at-em by 5:00 am. I begged him to let me sleep in until 6:00 am! By 7:00 am, we were sitting down eating breakfast at the Paris Restaurant. It’s the most popular dining area because it’s open 24 hours and it’s a very casual affair, buffet-style. It has 5 different food stations and 2 beverage stations. I opted for hot oatmeal, lots of fruit, and coffee … gotta have my cup of java!

While my BFFs decided to sleep in and stay onboard, DH and I opted to take have some fun ashore. There were several on-shore excursions to choose from, and we chose the 4-hour Tour to La Bufadora (The Blow Hole). By 9:00 am, we were on a bus through main street Ensenada to the famous La Bufadora. According to our guide, there are only 2 others in the world -- one in Australia and one in Hawaii:

This is a VERY popular tourist attraction … and what would a tourist attraction be without the usual flea market vendors?

You HAVE to walk this way to get to/from the blow hole and you are bombarded by hawkers inviting you into their stand. Don’t speak Spanish? No problem! They speak English! Jewelry, bags, huaraches, pottery, clothes, serapes, etc. … it’s all there!

But the best were the tacos! I had the BEST fish, shrimp and carne asada tacos I’ve ever had in my life! I wished I’d skipped breakfast! I’m still drooling just thinking of them. There was a small stand just on the opposite side of the taco place that was selling backpacks and other Mexican curios. The sellers were an elderly Indian couple that were just too cute for words! I bought 3 backpacks from them and would have loved to talk with them more but it was time to move on. I wish I still had the picture I took of them …

From there, the bus made its way to the “Plaza Civica” … a beautiful civic community center that was at one time owned by Jack Dempsey. The Spanish architecture and designs are just gorgeous!

By 1:00 pm we were back at the ship … and it was time for lunch! While most folks (there were at least 1,000 guests) indulged in drinking, DH and I indulged in eating … I’m telling ya, we did alot of eating! But that’s okay, because at 2:30 pm, we met up with Viv & Lori at one of the music lounges where the Latin band CHICO was playing; and I danced those calories away! It was a blast and I haven’t had so much fun in a long time.

The band finished playing at 5:30 pm so we all went to our rooms for some R&R. Sometime soon after, we left the port of Ensenada; and before we knew it, we were out in the open sea.

At 8:30 pm we were seated at our dinner table. Once again, dinner was fabulous! I had the shrimp cocktail, lobster tails, and Baked Alaska, plus who knows what else! And we were once again entertained by the servers … I so wish I had the video … it was hilarious!

By 10:00 pm we were seated in the showroom waiting for the late night show of “Eight More Seconds” starring the Paradise Dancers and singers Rachel and Julian with live music. It was wonderful!

So another day at sea ended … and we were dead tired!

Day Three, Sunday: A Fun Day at Sea – This time DH let me sleep in while he went exploring. By this time, he had made some new acquaintances and was eager to meet up with them.

By 9:00 am, DH & I were eating breakfast in the Paris Restaurant. Well, I was eating breakfast; DH was snacking as he’d already had 2 breakfasts! After breakfast, we wandered and explored the ship; did a lap around the jogging track; then sat out on the deck, relaxing and taking in the sunshine.

Around noon, one of the shops was having a mega sale on their “designer” watch sets. OMG, it was an all-out frenzy of folks grabbing as many sets as they could. DH & I got the 2 we wanted, but folks were walking out with 10, 12, 15 sets. They make nice gifts, but jeez, louise!

Anyway, by then it was lunchtime again! This time we had a sit-down lunch at the Elation Restaurant with our friends Viv & Lori. It was delicious! I had the sushi, avocado soup, fillet of fish, and a caramel flan for dessert.

Then at 2:30 pm, it was time to hit the dance floor with more music from CHICO. If you look closely at the picture below, you may be able to find me shaking my bootie!

This was Sunday afternoon, and the threat of rain was very real. It drizzled a little and it was chilly, but it certainly didn’t dampen our spirits. By the time the band finished playing at 5:30 pm, it was definitely time to go inside. We then made our way to one of the music lounges where there was a small band playing Top 40 Hits. It was right next to the sushi bar … it was delicious! When the music finished at 7:30 pm, it was time to go to our rooms to get ready for dinner.

Our last dinner on ship was wonderful! I had the shrimp cocktail, spare ribs and a delicious chocolate dessert. The maître d’ gave a nice farewell speech and our server bid each one of us farewell. It was a very nice ending.

We didn’t make it to the final show as we were pretty tired. We watched a little TV and then lights out!

Day Four, Monday: Debarkation, Long Beach, California – Sometime between 4:00 and 5:00 am, the ship docked in Long Beach; and it was time to get back to the real world. We had our final breakfast on ship at 7:00 am and then headed back to our rooms to gather up our final things.

We decided to do the “relaxed debarkation” and had our luggage delivered to the terminal. My BFFs Viv & Lori had to go directly to work so they did “self assist debarkation” and took their luggage with them. We said our goodbyes and promised to take another cruise together. They left the ship before us; and by 10:30 am, DH and I were on our way to our vehicle, our thoughts filled with memories of our trip.

I am so happy we decided to take this little trip. Everything went smoothly, and none of us got seasick. We had so much fun! Another memorable birthday celebration for me.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY … To Me!

2010-10-19T00:28:00.001-07:00

I can’t believe it’s been over a month since my last post … so I decided to make a comeback today since it is my birthday! I plan to get my hair and nails done, plus do a little shopping … because on Friday we are leaving on a four-day cruise to Baja, Mexico! Yippee! It’ll be my first-ever cruise and I’m really excited. We’ll be sailing on the Paradise ship with Carnival Cruises. There she is in the picture above … isn’t she beautiful!

DH and I will be joining my BFF Vivian and our friend Lori, so it should be lots of fun. These two are a barrel of laughs! Here we are in Kauai, Hawaii last year:

Our Kauai trip last year was also in October so it was another birthday trip for me. It was a “girls only” trip so we had a blast, and it was an adventure of a lifetime!

As for the weight-loss program … well, that’s sort of come to a screeching halt for now. I have no excuse for not walking since the weather is so much cooler now. And now there is this cruise … I just hope I can maintain some control and still enjoy myself!

Have a wonderful week, and I’ll see you all when I get back!

9/11 … Never Forget

2010-09-11T21:38:00.001-07:00

Tribute of Light

A tribute to 9/11 victims … This is the simplest, yet most thought provoking monument to all the lives lost on that terrible day. The light of their souls will never disappear!

WIP Wednesday & Wednesday Weigh-In

2010-09-08T21:15:00.001-07:00

I’ve been creating kids quilts for Project Linus since 2001 and have donated close to 50 quilts. But over the last couple of years, I really haven’t made any quilts to donate.

Here is a stack of 10 quilt tops that I’ve had sitting around for at least year. For whatever reason, I’ve never gotten around to quilting them. So I decided to bring them out and get busy quilting them so I can donate them to Project Linus. They’re about crib size so not very big which makes them quick and easy to quilt. Maybe I can get a couple finished this week …

And I am very jazzed because … I lost another half pound! It doesn’t sound like much, but I’m amazed that I haven’t gained cuz I’ve not been very good. I’ve been eating some things I shouldn’t and I haven’t been exercising. On a subconscious level, I must be doing something right. I do know we’re eating more fish and fruits & vegetables. But it’s all okay … tomorrow’s another day and another opportunity to do right.

Striped Quilt Challenge … Top is Finished!

2010-09-06T20:07:00.001-07:00

Last week I posted here about the Striped Quilt Challenge that Beth at Love Laugh Quilt has been hosting. And, I believe today was the last day of the challenge, although I don’t think a finish was “required”. It’s all about having fun and quilting!

I managed to get this small quilt top finished, and I’m pretty happy with it, especially since I had a limited stash to work with. I do like how the stripes make the pinwheels look like they’re moving. Not so much in the picture, but in person they almost make you dizzy if you stare at them too long. I hope to have it finished by end of this week.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Labor Day holiday!

Happy September! Does This Happen To You?

2010-09-03T19:49:00.001-07:00

How many of you have the same problem I do with taking pictures of quilts? I always struggle with this. Should I place it on a bed? What about the floor? Or maybe a chair or a couch?

I know! Wouldn’t it be better if I can get someone to hold it up for me? Oh, sure it would, but around my house, that’s like pulling teeth! So, if I’m lucky enough to snag DH or DS for the job, I’d better be super quick and not take too long! Or else this happens: see picture above.

And, I’d better not take more than one picture of the same quilt, or I will get “the look” … you know, the look that says “you gotta be kidding! Again?! Better hurry, or I’m outta here!”

No weekly finish today, but lots of WIPs! I’m so glad September is here and school has started. I’m looking forward to the fall season and cooler weather. Have a great weekend!

Striped Quilt Challenge

2010-09-02T21:53:00.001-07:00

Beth at Love Laugh Quilt has been hosting a Striped Quilt Challenge; and this is the last week of the challenge which, of course, ends this weekend.

Here is Beth’s quilt … isn’t it beautiful! When I saw this, I was inspired to make my own striped quilt.

And, when I joined a month ago, I really believed that I would not have a problem … at least starting a project and even believed that I would surely finish one before the challenge ended. But here I am, just a few days left, and all I’ve done is cut a few strips. I hope this counts as a “start”!

At the time, I knew I had some striped fabric, but I happily envisioned myself going to the fabric store to add to my stash! Well, that didn’t happen. And, my limited stash gave me no vision and no plan, so I had to go online for inspiration. Here are a few quilts I found:

I’m still not sure what I’m going to do. I’m thinking maybe pinwheels or hour glass blocks, but I do so love the zig-zag design!

WIP Wednesday & Wednesday Weigh-In

2010-09-01T13:21:00.001-07:00

Have made some progress on my Charm Pack Quilt Along by Karrie Lyne over at Freckled Whimsy. Still need to sew all the rows then sew on the borders. Maybe it’ll be a Friday finish … hmmm?

Here’s the one by Karrie Lyne:

I really like this design and have decided to use it for my Charm Pack quilt:

I’m also participating in a Postage Stamp (1-1/2” charm) swap by Subee Sews Quilts.

There are 25 baggies with 50 charms in each one. These are ready to go and will be mailed out today. The deadline is September 15, but it is an ongoing swap. If you’re interested in participating in the next swap, click here for more info.

… and the struggle continues. But I am happy to report that, after gaining 2.5 lbs last week, I lost .5 lb this week. Not much, but it is so much better than gaining it!

Weekly Finish #15: Patriotic Log Cabin Quilt Top

2010-08-27T17:17:00.001-07:00

Hallelujah! My “quilt of errors” is FINALLY finished! Well, at least the top is finished … I am so happy to finally get it done. I’m also happy to report that I used up all my patriotic strips/scraps on this top. Read about my progress here.

I really like the border with the delectable mountain blocks. This was my first time making the block and had to improvise because I didn’t really have a pattern. The blocks were not so easy to make and are definitely not perfect.

The top is much bigger than I anticipated, finishing at 85” square. I’m sure this will nicely cover a queen-size bed. Can you believe I was originally going to make it with 12 blocks?! This is so big that I had to move the furniture out of the way just to take a picture.

Anyway, making this quilt top was definitely a learning experience. And, even though there was plenty of frustration, I’m happy with the outcome and am planning to make another one ~ some day ~ but with different fabrics. Not sure when this top will be quilted, so for now it’s in my “To Be Quilted” pile.

Am linking up to the following. Please be sure to visit for more great finishes:

Wednesday Weigh-In … It Happened

2010-08-25T13:32:00.001-07:00

Well, what I was afraid would happen did happen … my weight/water loss has come to a screeching halt! Not only did I not lose any weight, but I gained 2.5 lbs … boo hoo hoo! I knew it was too easy to last.

I suppose two 7-hour days of sitting in a car and eating junk food (i.e., McDonalds, In-N-Out Burger, Top Dog, etc.) on my trip to Berkeley did not help. Although I did take fruit for the road and walked at every opportunity, it just wasn’t enough to keep the pounds off.

That’s okay … I’m still minus 6 lbs. which is an average loss of 2 lbs. per week. Not to get discouraged by this gain, but it does make me realize I am now going to have to work at losing it. Let the fun begin!

BTW, did anyone read Losing It! by Valerie Bertinelli. I read it a few months ago and it was a good read. I learned more about her life than I ever wanted to know! Anyway, I must say she does look good …

Loss of a Loved One …

2010-08-25T13:10:00.001-07:00

This picture was taken on my wedding day, almost 27 years ago. Because my father was suffering from Alzheimer’s, I asked my Godfather “Nino Ray” to walk me down the aisle. He was thrilled at my request because he had no daughters of his own. This is one of my favorite pictures of that special day.

Yesterday, I said my last goodbyes to this wonderful, gentle man. He too had been battling Alzheimer’s; and on August 17, my “nino” quietly and peacefully passed away in his sleep. He was 91 years old and a WWII veteran who served his country with pride and honor.

He leaves behind his wife ~ my “Nina Rebecca” ~ his son Rick, grandson Nick, and 3 great-grandchildren. Tragically, his second grandson Gene passed away 15 years ago from a gunshot accident. He was only 17 years old and a senior in high school. They are now buried side by side. May they forever rest in peace …

God saw you were getting tired, and a cure was not to be.

So, He put His arms around you and whispered,

“Come to Me.”

A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands now rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.

Move-In Day at Berkeley …

2010-08-23T12:26:00.001-07:00

David with San Francisco Bridge in the distance

This past Friday and Saturday, we drove up to northern California to take DS#1 to Cal Berkeley for his first year at the university. The ocean is only a few miles away, and it was freezing! During our 7-hour drive, the temperature ranged from a high of 102 in central California to 56 in Berkeley.

Unit 1 Residence Halls

David is in Putnam Hall on the 6th floor

Saturday morning we got there early, but move-in did not start until 10 a.m. so we drove around for a couple of hours and ended up at the ocean. When we finally made it back to the dorms, more students and parents had arrived. There was a long line for check-in but it moved quickly and David soon had his room key.

Proud Papa Assisting with Move In	Not Too Much Stuff to Move
A Bike to Get Around Campus	Three To A Room ~ Tight Quarters
All Moved In	Mimi Goes to College

Many students bring all the comforts of home, including their stereos, microwave, mini-refrigerator ~ everything but the kitchen sink. Not my David ~ he’s a simple kind of guy and nothing but the basics for him. I think he just doesn’t want to worry about “things” ~ he’ll be too busy studying.

I Finally Made It!!

After three years at the community college and getting his General Ed classes out of the way, he finally reached his dream of getting into Cal Berkeley. His major is mathematics which is ironic since he hated math in high school. But at 23 (he’ll be 24 this December), he is more mature and focused, and I know he’ll be successful in reaching his next dream: getting his degree.

A Last Goodbye ~ Until End of Semester

After a shaky start, he got his act together and set out to reach his goals. We’re proud of David and his accom-plishments!

One Year Old

WIP Wednesday & Wednesday Weigh-In

2010-08-18T12:00:00.001-07:00

Karrie Lyne over at Freckled Whimsy is having a Charm Pack Quilt Along. Yeah, I love to quilt-along! And I also love the 12 Days of Christmas by Kate Spain for Moda.

They’re already on week three, but I just started working on my HSTs so I’ve got some catching up to do. Here’s one by Kim using the same charm pack:

I can’t wait to get my Charm Pack quilt finished, but first …

… I need to finish my log cabin “quilt of errors”. I have made some progress, and I’m thinkin’ I’m likin’ it! Check out that middle block … I think it adds character, don’t you? I’m thinking I’d like to do something other than just a plain border. We’re heading to Berkeley again this Friday, so not sure if I’ll have this top done by then … but I’m working on it.

On a different note, I’m happy to report that I lost 7.5 lbs this past week!! Seems unbelievable, but frankly I believe most is water loss due to my blood pressure medication which is also a diuretic. So let it be! It's good to see the arrow on the scale go down instead of up, and it's a great motivator. I'm already feeling better!

Surprised and Honored … My First Award

2010-08-16T12:36:00.001-07:00

I received my first blogging award - The Versatile Blogger Award – from Michelle at The Desert Quilter! Thank you so much … I am honored! I was totally surprised when I read Michelle’s email this morning; and I was very touched by her recognition.

The award comes with a few easy rules:

Thank the person who gave you the award. (Definitely!)
Tell 7 things about yourself.
Award 15 other bloggers that you enjoy reading.

7 Things About Me:

I will be married 27 years this December; have three grown children; and 5 grandchildren.
I love to read almost anything, but crime fiction is my favorite.
I love movies; thrillers and dramas are my favorites.
I hate to cook but love baking.
My favorite subject in school was English (love to write).
My current favorite TV show is The Closer.
I worked for over 20 years as a public service employee; and am a retired Code Enforcement Officer (worked long hours and definitely not overpaid).

15 Bloggers who are receiving the Versatile Blogger Award from me (in no particular order):

Stephanie at A Ditchin’ Time Quilts
Beth at Love Laugh Quilt
Delilah at Love.Laugh.Sew
Diane at Life Scraps
Em at Em’s Scrapbag
Karen at Sewing Tales
Linda at ScrapMaster
Barb at Bewjewled Quilts by Barb
Lori at Humble Quilts
Amanda Jean at Crazy Mom Quilts
Amy at During Quiet Time
Nedra at Cactus Needle Quilts
Nancy-Rose at Life is a Stitch
Tazzie at Tazzie Quilts
Trisha at TLC Stitches

There are so many wonderful bloggers, and it was not an easy task to pick just 15! The rules are easy but please don’t feel obligated on my part if they seem to be too much work. I just want to give a cheer and recognition to all quilting bloggers. I am happy to be part of such a special group in blogland; and thanks to all for sharing your creativity!

Another Busy Week …

2010-08-14T12:22:00.001-07:00

Another busy week and not much quilting done … still working on my #$@ “quilt of errors” log cabin quilt. I couldn’t stand it so I took apart the center of all 28 units and sewed them correctly. Time consuming, yes, but it would have taken me longer to make 28 replacement units.

Anyhow, DS#1 is back from his summer session at Berkeley. None the worse for wear. He loved his classes but found his math class very challenging. He hated the dorm, but will have to live with it again in the fall. He has a one-week break and goes back next weekend for the new school year.

So on the way home from Berkeley, we drove by this vehicle engulfed in flames. I felt bad for the folks standing by the road, but it seems they were able to save their belongings. A little excitement on an otherwise boring and uneventful ride.

I took the picture with my new toy ~ a Samsung Vibrant Galaxy Android phone ~ got it in the mail just before we left on our trip to Berkeley:

I’d had a Razor flip phone for a couple of years and it was beginning to fail. I really liked my old phone. No fancy gadgets so it was easy to use and served me well. I told DH that I needed a new phone, maybe a Smartphone that could alert me when I received messages. Something fairly easy to use and not very fancy. Well, Mr. Gadgetman (that’s DH) decides to get me this ultra-new super fancy phone … I don’t care for phones that are smarter than me!

No sooner had DH set it up for me the darn thing starts yapping. Someone was calling me and I didn’t even know how to answer it! Anyway, while on the road, I had a chance to play with it a little and am beginning to learn how to use it. It’ll take me a while to get used to it and appreciate it. In the meantime, I have three guys who would love to take it off my hands if I decide I don’t want it!

Wednesday Weigh-In: Week #1

2010-08-11T10:56:00.001-07:00

Lost 1.5 lbs this week!! Woohoo! Don’t know how that happened cuz I was not a good girl. I didn’t get out to walk as I’d planned and I didn’t really change my diet by much, but I guess even little changes help. I cut out the late night snacks and started eating more fish and veggies for dinner.

I’ve never been a physically active person and have struggled with my weight since I was in high school, although I was never *fat*. Back then, I could lose it just as quickly. But, you all know, when you hit 30, the metabolism slows down and it takes more activity to lose the weight and not gain it … that’s when most of us tend to get chunky.

For the past 23-25 years, I mostly sat behind a desk for 8-10 hours at work; and when I wasn’t behind the desk, I was behind the wheel. Half of my work day was spent in a city vehicle. Then I’d commute 4 hours to and from work every day … more sitting. Of course, when I got home, what would I do? Either sit at my computer or sewing machine. It’s no wonder I put on so much weight!

Quilting is such a wonderful and creative hobby. It just gives me such a lift and makes me feel happy! But it’s also very sedentary … I can spend hours (if not days) sitting at my sewing machine. Good for the heart and soul, but not too good for the body.

Way back in January 2000, I went to my first Road to California Quilt Show. An announcement came over the loudspeaker from an emotional exhibitor who wanted to pay tribute to Doreen Speckmann. I had no idea at that time who she was, but I do remember very well what the speaker said. She pleaded with all of us *quilters* to take care of ourselves and make sure we get plenty of exercise … it’s too easy for us to sit at our sewing machine all day and forget how important exercise is to our health.

Doreen Speckmann passed away suddenly on September 18, 1999 in Ireland, while leading a quilting tour. I believe she suffered a heart attack or stroke, and collapsed while at a social event on the cruise. She was only 48 and far too young for something like this to happen.

So with this in mind, I will get off my butt and go take a walk …

No Friday Finish This Week

2010-08-06T16:01:00.001-07:00

28 Log Cabin Units

It was definitely a busy week, and I didn’t get as much sewing done as I normally do. I’m still working on the patriotic log cabin quilt that I started this past Sunday … and it’s turning out to be “a quilt of errors”!

I thought this’d be an easy quilt to piece … surely I’d have the top finished by today. And I think that was my first error … thinking the log cabin block is very easy to sew, I didn’t pay too much attention.

After completing my first block (below) and posting about my error here, I decided to go forward with more *wonky* units.

First 16-unit block

I calculated that I needed 44 more log cabin units. When I finished the last one, I was so happy. I was looking forward to sewing the blocks together and then into rows. I could see the light at the end of the tunnel … and then I made a second 16-unit block.

Second 16-unit block

Hello! What happened?! The first and second blocks don’t match … third error! Not only did I sew the log cabin units wrong ~ again ~ but I also did not make enough! My little pile of 28 remaining log cabin units didn’t seem large enough to make 10 more blocks! What was I thinking? Ummm …. 16 x 11 equals 176 units … not 44 … fourth error!

So this is not fun anymore, and I don’t wanna play! But I will continue, except that I’m making only 9 blocks and that means I need to make 84 more units! Groan! It’ll probably take me until next Friday to finish this … unless I just get fed up with it and toss it aside first! So who knows what I’ll be posting about for my next Friday Finish … until then, have a great weekend!

Wednesday Weigh-In

2010-08-05T18:09:00.001-07:00

I’ve decided to join Stephanie over at A Ditchin’ Time Quilts for her weekly Wednesday weigh-in. My first weigh-in will be next week so I hope to lose at least one itty-bitty pound!

Have been thinking ~ again ~ of losing weight for sometime. Every week I read how bad excess weight is and how it can lead to all kinds of horrible things, like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, etc. I know what I need to do … eat right and exercise regularly. But knowing and doing are two different things.

Since I got married almost 27 years ago, I have steadily gained over 90 lbs! Gasp! It’s the first time I’ve put that in writing. Three pregnancies; a couple of traumatic events that caused depression, panic attacks and agoraphobia; and a sedentary work- and life-style all lead to my weight gain. At some point, I gave up and for awhile accepted my being overweight.

Over the past few years, I tried several times to lose weight: joined Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, and even Curves. At one point I lost 20 lbs. and felt pretty good. Then I lost interest, gained it all back plus more … and gave up again. I had one excuse after another. Then I told myself that “when I retired, I’d have more time to exercise and eat healthier” – no more eating-out with the office gang! Well, I’ve been retired 1-1/2 years and still overweight. But I know it’s not healthy and I do want to live for many more years.

I went to the doctor’s two days ago and was put on blood pressure medication for the first time in my life. I know my bad cholesterol levels are high and my sugar is high (pre-diabetic). Not good at all!! So I have to … I must … lose weight so I can enjoy a healthier and happier future.

Having said all that, today being my *first* day of eating healthy, I totally blew it! I had my usual coffee with hazelnut Coffee-mate and Eggos. Then, after a 3-hour visit at the DMV, DS#2 and I had a late lunch at Bob’s Big Boy, where I ordered a hamburger and fries with a chocolate shake … ouch!! In my defense, I ate only 1/2 the burger and 1/2 the shake. Dinner will be much healthier: tilapia fish with vegetables and a small salad.

I do enjoy walking so that will be my exercise because it has always worked for me … so long as it includes an incline. Lots of those where I live! So now I’m off for a short walk around the neighborhood and hopefully I will lose that itty-bitty pound for next week!

WIP Patriotic Log Cabin Quilt

2010-08-01T11:36:00.001-07:00

This little project snuck in before all the other projects on my *to do* list. I have no idea how that happened! Well, okay, yes, I do know …

After making this quilt for Stacie’s It’s A String Challenge, I still had quite a few of these leftover:

They’d been sitting on my cutting table for over a month, and they kept staring at me. I kept telling them they had to wait their turn. I tried hard to ignore them, but they kept bugging me. I finally decided I had to do something with them or else they would drive me crazy!

So, I decided I would do a patriotic log cabin quilt … how hard could that be? I’d already made one log cabin quilt about 4 years ago:

So, I looked through my collection of books and magazines for a log cabin pattern, and finally settled on a traditional design. After making my first unit, I realized I didn’t exactly follow the pattern when sewing the white and print logs. I didn’t think it was a big deal so long as I was consistent, so I happily sewed 15 more units.

And here’s the *block* with 16 log cabin units; it measures 26-1/2 inches square:

Do you notice anything? Maybe not, but the design is a little wonky … the red squares do not line up and the “steps” of the white logs are not consistent! NOW I know why the pattern said to sew the logs in a specific order … who would have thought it made any difference?!

Originally, I thought I’d just make this as a small table topper, and make more log cabin units following the pattern. But the more I looked at this, the more I really liked this *wonky* look.

I think I’ll make 11 more blocks and use a 3 x 4 setting. I think that should be a good size for a Quilt of Valor quilt. So I’m off to make more log cabin units …

Here’s wishing you a great Sunday!

Another Touch of Comfort Quilts for Kids Project

2010-07-29T15:25:00.001-07:00

I just completed my fourth quilt for the Downy Touch of Comfort Quilts For Kids project. Three are from requested kits and the fourth is from my own fabric stash. And, for now, this completes my contribution to this worthwhile program.

I’ll continue to make quilts for kids through Project Linus, which keeps my donations locally; and, I can also deliver my finished quilts to a neighbor who helps coordinate the local chapter … no shipping costs!

The Touch of Comfort project was much fun, and it was exciting to receive the kit in the mail to see what fun fabrics had been sent. The quilts are fast and easy to make, so I do hope new folks will jump on the bandwagon to help them reach their goal of 10,000 quilts before the end of the year. Click here for more info.

UPDATE: Quilts for Kids has chapters nationwide. These local chapters keep donations within the communities they serve. Click here to find a chapter in your area.

Weekly Finish #14: David’s Plaid Dorm Quilt

2010-07-28T11:58:00.001-07:00

In addition to “collecting” fabric, I also like to collect quilting magazines. When I first started quilting, I think I collected every magazine that was published … and saved each & every one of them! Over the years, I accumulated tons of magazines. When I started to run out of storage space, I knew I had to purge my “collection”.

I have finally narrowed it down to those magazines I enjoy the most: BHG American Patchwork & Quilting; Fons & Porter Love of Quilting; McCall’s Quick Quilts; and Quiltmaker. And I only keep five years’ worth, so for now my magazines go back to 2005.

I love going through my old magazines. Every once in a while, I’ll pull out a few magazines just to flip through them. It’s like going through a new magazine! That’s how I stumbled upon this plaid dorm quilt from a Fons & Porter magazine.

Plaid Dorm Quilt from Fons & Porter

I’d been wanting to make a quilt for DS#1 for quite some time. I had a collection of plaids and homespun fabric that I thought he might like, but I couldn’t decide on a pattern that I thought would be to his liking.

I thought this dorm quilt would be perfect since he is now living in a dorm after recently transferring to Cal Berkeley. I hope this quilt will bring him some warmth and comfort during the cool fall & winter seasons while he’s away from home.

I started this quilt a few weeks ago and finally finished it this week. The quilt has 168 five-inch finished squares and has a 12 x 14 setting. It has a soft flannel backing and measures 58” x 66”. I used Warm & Natural batting and quilted it myself with a simple line design.

I’m very happy with how it turned out … and for some assurance that DS#1 would like it, my DH said he would love it!

Am linking up to the following. Please be sure to visit for more great finishes:

Glendale Quilt Guild: 2010 Quilt Show

2010-07-25T12:18:00.001-07:00

This past March 20, my BFF Brenda and I went to the Glendale Quilt Show in Burbank (CA). We are always in awe of the amazing talent exhibited at the quilt shows.

More often than not, we are intimidated by such awesome talent … so many beautiful quilts that are way beyond our own skills and talents.

And as much as we love to see those amazingly beautiful quilts, we truly enjoy those quilts that are simpler and less complicated but yet beautiful.

These are the quilts that truly inspire and encourage us to hope that one day our quilts may be displayed at a quilt show … for all to oooh and aaahh! Then, we realize that our own quilts are also beautiful because they are made with so much love for our family and friends.

International Quilt Show ~ Long Beach, CA

2010-07-25T11:30:00.001-07:00

Had a great time yesterday at the International Quilt Festival in Long Beach (CA)! I can’t post any pictures of the exhibits, but here’s a fun picture of my BFF Brenda and me with our favorite quilting diva, Eleanor Burns! We had a delicious lunch at Islands Restaurant and the weather couldn’t have been better. But, by the end of the day, we were dragging our feet from so much walking. That place is HUGE and there were hundreds of vendors and exhibits. I’m glad to say that I stayed within my budget and still had a great time!

WIP: Millennium 2000 or Y2K Charm Quilts

2010-07-23T13:14:00.001-07:00

Second Millennium or Y2K Charm Quilt Top ~ 2010

Back in 1999 when I started quilting, there really weren't any quilt blogs, but quilters were hanging out on quilt message boards on sites like quilting.about.com.

Lots of quilters were swapping 2-1/2" or 3" fabric squares (or charms) in order to make a Y2K quilt with 2,000 different fabric squares. There were even magazine articles about how to join these swaps. Some swaps were set up individually via email (there would be lists of people willing to swap on various websites); but others were “centralized” swaps with one person coordinating the swap.

Once you joined a swap, you made up sets of 80 squares of different fabrics, plus a signature square and a very short biography. These sets were called “squishies” because the envelope or baggie containing the set was soft and squishy.

There were usually 25 members in a swap. If all worked as planned, you would end up with 2,000 different squares, or charms. This was a really inexpensive way to get a large variety of fabrics.

A close-up view of the signature squares

Signature squares from the US and even Canada

I had so much fun swapping charms that I ended up with enough squares to make THREE millennium (or Y2K) quilts. My first Y2K Quilt was a 2004 Christmas gift to one of my staff for their support and hard work.

First Millennium 2000 Charm Quilt ~ 2004

And, now, here we are 10 years later, and I’m still trying to finish my 2nd Y2K quilt! It’s pictured on a queen-size bed in the beginning of this post. I don’t know exactly when I started & finished this quilt top, but it’s been about two years. It’s still waiting to be quilted!

But wait! There’s a 3rd Y2K quilt somewhere … oh, yes, here it is:

It’s still in this bin! This is a picture of all 25 squishies, each containing 80 different fabric charms. You can see the squishy on the top is from Alabama. Hard to believe I’ve had these for 10 years! Maybe I’ll get this quilt done sometime during the next decade!

Friday Finish #13: Bouillabaisse Quilt Top

2010-07-22T13:34:00.001-07:00

My bouillabaisse quilt top is FINALLY finished! I started it last year in September and posted about it here in January. I’ve been working on it off-and-on; and this week I made a commitment to finish it. It has twenty blocks and each block is 20-1/2 inches. It measures in at 97 square inches, with a 6-1/2 inch border.

This is the second bouillabaisse quilt I’ve made, but I had so many issues with it! It seems that no matter how many 1-3/4” strips I cut, it just wasn’t enough! But the real dizzies were the points and bias edges … OMG, by the last few blocks, I couldn’t care less whether anything matched: I just wanted to get ‘er done!

It’s shown on a queen size bed, and it’s the second queen-size quilt top I’ve made. I’m not sure yet whether I will quilt it myself or send it out. I’m definitely keeping this one so I’m really leaning towards sending it to a LA quilter. But, for now, it’s in my “To Be Quilted” pile!

This is a picture of the original bouillabaisse quilt I made in 2003. I bought the fabric kit and with my BQF Brenda took a class at the LQS. I blogged about it here. This quilt was much easier to make than my second one … maybe that’s because I made it in class. I don’t know … but I do know I won’t be making another one soon!

This is a bouillabaisse quilt that my BQF Brenda made and was the inspiration for my second bouillabaisse quilt. You may not be able to notice in the pictures, but we used many of the same fabrics. That’s because she often benefits when I go through a “stash cleaning” episode. I just love the colors on this quilt! Okay, so I’m a big copy-cat; but Brenda and I have very similar tastes … I guess that’s why we get along so well!

And this bouillabaisse quilt was made by Sinta @ Pink Pincushion. She started hers in 2008 and finally finished it this February. Read about her love/hate relationship with the quilt here and how it almost caused the demise of her sewing machine!

Am linking up to the following … Be sure to visit for more Friday Finishes:

Hot, Hot, Hot … How To Be Cool!

2010-07-17T20:15:00.001-07:00

How hot was it today in Corona, CA? Over 100 degrees! So DH and I spent the day at the Harbor in Oceanside where it was a cooler 76 degrees. We had lunch at Monterey Bay Canners Restaurant and then took a stroll around the harbor. Darn, forgot my camera so I took a couple pictures with my cell phone.

It was a nice leisurely day and the weather in Oceanside was beautiful! Wishing you a very cool weekend!

Sew & Tell Friday #12: Charm & Jelly Roll Quilt Top Plus More …

2010-07-16T13:10:00.001-07:00

I decided to take a break from nickel quilts! I made this top from a kit I purchased at my LQS a couple years ago. I saw the sample in the store and fell in love with the fabric and design. Actually, the store had run out of the kits, but I was still able to buy some yardage and received the pattern for free.

It’s such an easy scrappy design that uses one charm pack plus one jelly roll. The block is a four-patch of 2-1/2” squares, plus four 2-1/2” strips, which are sewn to the 4-patch in a log-cabin style. I started this last week and just finished it yesterday. I’m not sure when I’ll be quilting it so for now it’s back to the UFO pile … hopefully not for long!

One more finish since last Friday … I previously posted about this top and finally finished quilting and binding it this week. Click here to read my previous post:

Autumn Nickel Quilt

I had three finishes this week: completed one quilt top; and finished quilting and binding two other tops. Woohoo! A busy week for quilting. Now to catch up on my housework and other stuff … :0)

Am linking to the following … please be sure to visit these blogs for more Friday Finishes:

Sew & Tell Friday #11: Northern Lights Christmas Nickel Quilt

2010-07-11T11:33:00.001-07:00

Remember this quilt top that I blogged about here? Well, I finally finished it, and I think I’m lovin’ it!

I made this quilt from a stash of Christmas fabrics that I’ve had for a few years. I cut up the fabrics into 5-inch squares, found a pattern that I liked, and put it all together into a baggie as a kit. Last year, I pulled out the kit and put the blocks together; but I wasn’t thrilled with the color combo … the background just didn’t seem right … and I put it aside to work on other projects.

Well, 2010 being the year to finish those UFOs, I tackled this project and finally finished it! But, even when I completed the top, I still wasn’t thrilled with it … it just didn’t sing to me. I struggled with the borders, and then finally decided, the heck with it, I’ll just make it borderless.

But now that it’s finished? It sings loud and proud! I quilted it with an allover heart and loopy design (a nice change over meandering); and the backing is an angel fabric that my BFF found at a garage sale and gave to me for my kids’ quilts. The quilt measures 47 x 60 inches.

I’m donating it to Project Linus; and I think the angels are perfect … and so is this cute fabric with the puppy in a stocking.

Why so many nickel quilts? A few years back, I decided I needed to tame my fabric stash and had this “brilliant” idea to make kits. I went through my extensive stash and collection of quilting books and magazines, and started putting fabrics and patterns together. I then placed these projects into baggies.

During this time, I also cut up much of my yardage into smaller cuts. If I had a yard, I cut it into a 1/2 yard and 2 FQs. If I had 2 yards, I would keep one yard intact. Sometimes I would cut a 1/2 yard into 5-inch squares, which means I ended up with tons of nickel squares. And I’m still working my way through these kits!

UPDATE: Am linking this to the following … please be sure to visit these blogs for more Friday Finishes:

Sew & Tell Friday #10: Pinwheel Sampler

2010-07-09T11:48:00.001-07:00

Well, I finally finished it and I LOVE it! I joined the pinwheel sampler quilt-along hosted by Rachel of p.s. i quilt in February, but put it aside in my UFO pile. I recently got motivated to finish it up when I saw the finished quilts that others had made. This was such a fun and easy project that I’m tempted to make another one!

I spent all day yesterday quilting and binding it so I could link up today to Sew & Tell Friday! Great motivation! I quilted it using an overall heart and loopy design; and it measures 56 x 68 inches.

This was my third blogging quilt-along, and they’re just alot of fun. I would have never tried a pinwheel sampler on my own, so thanks to Rachel for hosting!

Linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays … visit her post to see more sewing finishes! Am also linking up to Lit & Laundry’s Finished for Friday.

It Finally Came … New Nickel Book!

2010-07-08T23:53:00.001-07:00

My thrifty buy of the week … FREE book! I just love those nickel quilts! I’ve had Pat Speth’s two nickel quilt books for a few years now: Nickel Quilts and More Nickel Quilts. I was thrilled when I discovered she had a third nickel quilt book. I finally ordered it online from Amazon.com, and the best part is that I got it for FREE!! That’s right, it was free using my gift cards from SWAGBUCKS. How awesome is that?!

DD turned me on to Swagbucks.com when I visited in April. It’s so easy to win swagbucks, too! Anytime you search the internet using their toolbar, you get swagbucks. There are other ways to win; but I get most of my swagbucks by filling out surveys. The swagbucks are then redeemable for prizes such as gift cards for Amazon.com or Paypal.com. I redeemed my swagbucks for $20 in Amazon gift cards to buy this book, plus Amazon offered free shipping!

And I’ve already accumulated enough swagbucks for my next Amazon.com order! This is better than a 40% off coupon. For more info, Just click on the Swagbucks banner on my sidebar …

This was my thrifty buy of the week, so I’m linking up to Leigh’s Thrifty Thursday. What thrifty treasures have you all found?

WIP Christmas Nickel Quilt Top

2010-07-06T22:32:00.001-07:00

A UFO becomes a WIP ~ I made the blocks for this quilt last year. By the time I’d finished all 48 blocks, I needed a break … and so another UFO was born!

I’m trying to focus on finishing up my UFOs, so I pulled out these blocks and just finished sewing them up. But I’m not too crazy about it. I’m thinking I should’ve used a different background, but I wanted to replicate this quilt:

The pattern is Northern Lights, and it’s another nickel quilt from Pat Speth … you know how much I love her patterns! I had some old Christmas prints that I wanted to ~~get rid of~~ use up, and this seemed like the perfect pattern.

Problem is that I can’t find the right fabric for borders so I’m not lovin’ it much right now. I’m thinking I’ll just leave the borders off … and maybe it’ll be better once I quilt and bind it … so for now it’s another WIP!

Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Top

2010-07-06T15:52:00.001-07:00

Well, I finally finished my Pinwheel Sampler quilt top that I made as part of the quilt-along hosted by Rachel of p.s. i quilt. I started this in February but had to put it aside for awhile. This was a fun project and I’m very happy with the outcome. Hmmm, I wonder if I can finish it up quickly so I can post it for this week’s Sew & Tell Friday … maybe?

Some of the others are slowly but surely finishing up their quilts, too. Check out the pinwheel sampler flickr group here.

TTFN!

Sew & Tell Friday #9: Dutchman’s Puzzle Nickel Quilt Top

2010-07-01T13:25:00.001-07:00

Another nickel quilt from Pat Speth’s book! The pattern is Dutchman’s Puzzle, and I just finished this quilt top a couple days ago. It measures 55 x 69 inches. Again, I used old scraps that I just wanted to ~~get rid of~~ use up. I didn’t even enjoy the process of sewing the blocks and thought for sure the top would be a real loser. But look at it now … it just all came together once I added the two borders. The outer border is a red paisley that I am loving. I’m thinking this may be one of my favorites once I finish quilting it!

I purchased the kit for this table runner a few years ago. Well, I finally got around to finishing it up yesterday. It went together fairly quickly as it is a “quilt-as-you-go” project.

As easy as it was, I still had a problem and almost didn’t finish it. The middle square is supposed to be centered, and as you can see from the picture below it is not! After sewing on all the “log cabins” (strips), I realized the strips on one side were too short. I was too ~~lazy~~ frustrated to repair the damage so I just trimmed the edges as-is, thinking this would be another loser project.

However, once I finished binding it and putting it on the table, I realized it wasn’t too bad after all. Besides, you all wouldn’t have known there was a major mistake if I hadn’t told you … right?

Am linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays … what sewing project have you been up to?

Sew and Tell Friday #8: Autumn Nickel Quilt Top

2010-06-11T16:51:00.001-07:00

These are all scraps that I’ve had around for years. Individually, these squares are outdated and not very appealing. But put them together in a scrappy quilt, and they all somehow work beautifully together!

Just finished this quilt top yesterday and it measures 57” square. It’s another nickel quilt from Pat Speth’s “Nickel Quilts” book. I just love this series of books!

This pattern is “Autumn Stretched Star” and I used an alternate block arrangement. The design is created with 5-inch squares from a fall-theme fabric and 2-1/2” squares in a cream color. This was a really easy and fast pattern … great for a beginner!

Am linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays … what sewing project have you been up to?

Sew and Tell Friday #7 and String Challenge #2

2010-06-04T10:54:00.001-07:00

I signed up for two string challenges, and this is my second string quilt. I thought Memorial Day weekend was a good time to finish this one up. I’ll be donating this quilt to the Quilts of Valor program.

I started it way back in March and posted about it here. It all began with this pile of strings in patriotic fabrics that I’ve had for years. I still have a bunch left so I’ll be making another string quilt to use them all up … finally!

I’m linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays … and also posting this on Stacie’s It’s a String Thing Challenge and Stephanie’s No Strings Attached challenge.

Sew and Tell Friday #6: Wrapped in Hope Quilts

2010-05-28T13:22:00.001-07:00

Another Wrapped In Hope quilt … this is the third quilt I have donated to this wonderful program. I finished it yesterday and am sending it off today to it’s new owner.

This quilt is for Christian from California, and he likes Spider-man and books. Perfect! I already had the Spider-man material in my stash, which I’d purchased a couple years back. I alternated the 6-inch squares with red, white & blue Hourglass blocks. So simple, but what a great design! Do you see the secondary design the blocks create … the white star? BTW, I’m sending Christian a couple of Spider-man coloring books along with his quilt. Happy Birthday, Christian!

My quilting buddy Mary also made a Wrapped in Hope quilt. Here we are yesterday in the parking lot of the community center right before our guild meeting. Her quilt has butterflies and has a pretty pink flannel backing. Perfect for a sweet young lady!

Another week has come and gone … can you believe it?! Am linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays.

Blogger’s Quilt Festival … My Special Quilt

2010-05-23T14:22:00.001-07:00

I’ve been quilting for over 10 years, and this quilt is very special to me because it was the first quilt I ever made on my own …

It was 1999; and I had recently taken a quilting class where I completed my very first quilt top. So I was very motivated to make another quilt. As I browsed through my many quilting magazines, I found a quilt that caught my eye (pic of original quilt pattern below). Not ever having made a quilt on my own, I was quite intimidated but decided to give it a try anyway. Since I didn’t want to spend money on something I might “mess up”, I used fabric I’d had around for a long time.

Original Pattern from McCall’s Quilting 1999

The quilt has thirty “Shoo Fly” blocks and, at the time, was somewhat of a challenge. The quilt has yellow sashing with red setting squares and measures 54 ½ by 61. The border and the backing are the same fabric, which has white daisies on a red background, so the quilt has a lot of red in it. It was machined quilted in-the-ditch by me.

A day or two after finally finishing the quilt, my 2-year-old granddaughter, Emily, was asleep on the sofa. Thinking of my newly-finished quilt, I covered her with it. The next morning – to my surprise – when she saw the quilt, Emily happily showed the quilt to her mother and told her “Look, Mama! Grandma gave this to me!” I never got my quilt back, and Emily slept with her quilt every night!

Well, that was eleven years ago. Today my DGD Emily is 13 years old and is growing into a beautiful young woman. She no longer sleeps with her red quilt; it has been loved so much that her mom has put it away for now. Of course, she has other quilts her mom and I have made her, but this red quilt will always be special.

I love you, Emily! Always, Grandma

This is my contribution to the Blogger’s Quilt Festival. There are hundreds of contributions, so be sure to click on the link to see everyone else’s contribution!

Sew and Tell Friday #5: Quilts For Kids

2010-05-20T11:13:00.001-07:00

Finally finished my second Touch of Comfort quilt for Quilts for Kids. I named it “Robot Fun”, and it is now on its return trip.

Look at the really cute backing they sent for the quilt. I think it’s adorable and should bring many smiles to one lucky recipient!

I did take a little longer than the 4-6 weeks they give you to return the quilt, so I hope the quilting police don’t come after me!

And here is the 2nd quilt I’m sending along. The quilt top was made by my friend Mary so I was able to complete the quilt in time to send to Quilts for Kids.

I’m planning to request another kit and again hope to add a second quilt to go along. The Touch of Comfort program with Quilts for Kids has a goal of 10,000 quilts by the end of the year. Interested in helping? Click here for more info.

I am also linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays. Don’t forget to check out what everyone else has been up to!

Sew and Tell Friday #4 … Wrapped In Hope

2010-05-14T22:31:00.001-07:00

A few months ago, I posted here about Margaret's Hope Chest and their Wrapped In Hope project. After finishing my first WIH quilt, I signed up to make quilts for twins, who will be 11 in a couple weeks.

I made this quilt for the little boy. It measures 44” x 67”, and the main fabric has vintage hot rods, which I used for the 8” squares on the front. I also used it for the backing and the binding. I finished it today, label and all … so it’s ready to go!

My friend Mary made the 2nd quilt for the little girl. She used a cute birthday fabric and bright cheerful colors for her quilt. Both birthday quilts will be going out in the mail and should be at their new home next week.

There are still children available who will be celebrating birthdays throughout the year. If you are interested in volunteering to make a quilt, visit Carin’s blog Margaret's Hope Chest for more information.

Click on the button above for flickr pictures of more WIH quilts

I am also linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays. Don’t forget to check out what everyone else has been up to!

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

2010-05-09T14:15:00.001-07:00

Wishing all moms a fun-filled and blessed Mother’s Day!

Sew and Tell Friday #3: Road to Spring

2010-03-18T19:17:00.001-07:00

I started this quilt in February when I joined the Road to Spring quilt-along with Randi at i have to say. And, I FINALLY finished it this week … thank you Sew-and-Tell!

I just love these fabric collections from Maywood Studio and from South Sea Imports designed by Robyn Pandolph. The prints really do say SPRING!

The quilt top was fast and easy, especially since I used my handy-dandy Shape Cut from June Tailor. I machine quilted it with an all over swirly design and tacked down the binding by hand.

Still need to put a label on it as I forgot to put one on before I quilted it. But I’m so glad this quilt is finished, and I am really lovin’ it!

I will be linking up again to Amy's Sew and Tell Fridays. Don’t forget to check out what everyone else has been up to!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

2010-03-17T15:31:00.001-07:00

St. Patrick's Day Toast

Here’s to a long life and a merry one.
A quick death and an easy one
A pretty girl and an honest one
A cold beer – and another one!

Irish Toast

It is better to spend money like there's no tomorrow than to spend tonight like there's no money!

Irish Toast

May you die in bed at ninety-five years, shot by a jealous husband (or wife).

Irish Blessing

May the Good Lord take a liking to you ... but not too soon!

Happy St. Patty’s Day!

Potholder Pass Swap #2

2010-03-17T14:21:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I signed up for the second round of the Potholder Swap over at Amy’s During Quiet Time.

These are the potholders I made to send to my swap partner. I made them using an instruction book I received from my swap partner Jeannie. It is "101 Fun-to-Quilt Potholders" by Trice Boerens and has ideas for all sorts of occasions.

I also included this set of 4 coasters, using the same fabric as the potholders. I created a tutorial that shows you how to make these fun, easy coasters. Just click here to make your own!

I also used some of the leftover fabric to trim a dish towel. So, these are being sent off today, and I hope my swap partner likes them.

If you’d like to see what everyone else is making, you can take a look here at Flickr.

Happy quilting!

Tutorial: Fold and Turn Coasters

2010-03-14T17:08:00.001-07:00

These fold-and-turn coasters are SO easy and fun to make! I first saw this pattern in 2002 at a guild meeting, and the instructions were handwritten. There were no pictures … only hand drawings. Well, we’ve come a long way in 8 years!

I made this set of 4 coasters to include with the potholders I made for Amy’s Potholder Pass #2.

These coasters were made with five 5-inch cotton squares and one 5-inch flannel square. These can also be made in other sizes so long as the squares are equal-size. Suggested square sizes range from 4-1/2” to 6” … your choice. You may also use one 5-inch batting square, but I found batting was a tad too thick. But, again, your choice.

Instructions:

You will choose three different fabrics. Two fabrics will be used for the top of the coaster and one will be used for the bottom (backing). I chose the light blue for the bottom:
Cut fabric to desired square size. I used 5” squares.
Lay flannel (or batting) square on table:
On top of the flannel square, place your bottom (backing) fabric square, RIGHT SIDE UP. This will be the bottom of your coaster:
Now take each of the four squares of your two top fabrics and fold in half. Press.
You will arrange the folded halves around the bottom (backing) square with the folds to the center. Place the 1st folded square on top as follows:
Place the 2nd folded square on top of the 1st, like this:
Place the 3rd folded square on top of the previous, like this:
Here’s where it gets a little tricky … just a little! You will be tucking the end of the last (4th) folded half under the end of the 1st folded half, like this:
Now place the end of the 1st fold half on top of the last (4th) folded half. The folded squares should all be tucked in and all folds should be in the center. Raw edges should be even. Your coaster should look like this:
You may wish to use a couple of pins to hold it together. Now sew a 1/4” seam around all raw edges, like so:
Once you’re finished sewing, trim the corners:
Here’s the fun part! Pulling from the center, turn the folded squares inside out. The bottom (backing) fabric will be pulled from the inside to the outside:
Once completely turned inside out, gently push out the corners with a pointer:
All finished!

Use your imagination for fabric combinations: florals, animals, geometrics, etc. Make a set for each season or holiday. These make great gifts!

Enjoy!

Great Thrifty Quilty Finds

2010-03-14T14:58:00.001-07:00

I love to read … and I have a ton of books and magazines! When I’m finished reading, I usually donate them to our library’s used-book store. Of course, whenever I make a donation, I head on over to the bookstore and buy more books!

I think I scored pretty good this past Saturday! I found some great quilting and sewing books, like the newer “Strip Crazy” book above for $2.50 (SRP $19.00) and this 2002 Leisure Arts book for $3.00 (SRP $24.95):

Also picked up this April/May 09 Quilter’s Home magazine (below) for a quarter. This is the first time I’ve read this magazine, and it has some great articles. BTW, my car license plate says QLTPCR!

How about some vintage crafting? I picked up the cross-stitch pamphlet (above) from 1990 with the Ninja Turtles. My DS#1 who is 23 used to LOVE the Turtles. Aren’t they making a comeback?

And, here is my favorite find … this 1958 booklet “How to Make Sock Toys” , also for a quarter!

I know the Sock Monkey made a recent comeback. Not sure if it’s still a popular toy but look at the elephant sock toy … too cute!

Most libraries have a “Friends of the Library” organization that helps provide financial support by selling donated books either through a bookstore or monthly sales. If you’ve overlooked this great resource for quilting books and instructions, be sure to check with your local library. You may find some great buys that won’t break the bank!

I always look forward to my JoAnn’s flyer … and the recent flyer had some GREAT coupons! It had several 40%-off coupons and a 50%-off on any regular item; and they were good until yesterday.

Several bloggers have made some beautiful quilts from the book Scrap-Basket Surprises and highly recommend it. I used my 50% off coupon to get my copy … yippee!

Also bought some KONA fabric using my 40% off coupons … score! And I bought bobbins for my Viking Mega Quilter … two packs of 5 … for only $0.97 each … no coupon necessary!

I’ve been working with only 3 bobbins and they run out pretty quickly. Now when I’m quilting I don’t have to take time out to refill a bobbin. I’m a happy thrifty quilter!

Sew and Tell Friday #2: Camp Sloanie Quilt

2010-03-12T21:59:00.001-08:00

I FINALLY finished my yellow and black Camp Sloanie quilt from February! I machine quilted it with an all over swirly design and tacked down the binding by hand.

This yellow and black color combo is out of my comfort zone, as I’m not particularly partial to yellow. My favorite are fall colors … warm browns, gold tones, reds, dark greens, etc. Even so I really like my yellow-black quilt!

I found this really cute fabric that has a black background with yellow and white birdies, and I also found the yellow fabric with little black flowers to match:

I had a few leftover blocks, and there’s no better way to use them than to include them in the backing:

A quilt is not really finished until it has it’s label:

I am really bad about putting labels on my quilts. My BQFFs are always getting on me for this! So I made the label on my computer, using instructions from The Crafty Gemini:

I then attached my label to the backing BEFORE I quilted the top. It’s machine sewn on all four sides and then securely quilted. I don’t think this label is going anywhere! I just hope it withstands washing.

I’m linking up to Amy's fun Sew and Tell Fridays. Don’t forget to check out what everyone else has been up to!

Happy quilting!

Pinwheel Sampler Quilt-Along: Block 3

2010-03-10T14:03:00.001-08:00

Week 3 pinwheel blocks for Rachel's quilt-along.

Week 2 pinwheel blocks (above).

Week 1 pinwheel blocks (above). That’s six done and 10 to go!

Some of the fat quarters I’ll be using are from California Dreamin' by Jenean Morrison for Westminster Fibers. I love this line, and I can’t wait to see how this pinwheel quilt turns out!

Happy quilting!

Friendship Quilting Group: Quilts of Valor

2010-03-07T12:07:00.001-08:00

This past Tuesday I visited with my friend Mary and her quilting group, The Atherton Quilters. I had so much fun that day and everyone was so friendly that I decided to officially join the group! Here they are (above) with the Quilts of Valor they made at their January retreat.

This is the QOV top Mary helped make with her group. She’ll be taking it to the Sew Vac in Long Beach where it will be quilted by a volunteer longarm quilter and finished into a beautiful quilt for a veteran or servicemember.

Every Thursday afternoon, volunteers meet at the store to cut, sew and press QOVs. Volunteers receive one free admission ticket to Disneyland (!) as part of Disney’s “Give A Day, Get A Disney Day” program. How awesome is that! Especially since it’s over $70 for one admission ticket … how many folks can afford that in today’s economy? So I’ll be joining Mary this week … should be fun!

I previously blogged about Mary and her quillow here, and I finally gave it to her this past week. Here she is with a smile on her face and her long-awaited quillow:

So I’m off to meet up with my BFF Vivian to see George Clooney’s Oscar-nominated movie, Up In The Air …

ANYTHING with George Clooney in it is a winner with me! And you all know I’ll be watching the Oscars tonight …

TTFN!

Surprise in the Mail Today … Yippee!!

2010-03-06T23:29:00.001-08:00

This wonderful package came in the mail today! It’s from Jeannie in Florida, and she was my secret “potholder fairy” for the Potholder Pass #2 swap. I was flabbergasted and speechless when I opened the box because not only did Jeannie make these wonderful potholders, but she also included some additional goodies!

I love my potholders! Jeannie took the time to read my blog and found out that red is my favorite color … wow!

I also received these two adorable pouches … in red! The large pouch is zippered, and I am just thrilled to receive them.

As if that wasn’t enough, Jeannie included this 101 Fun-to-Quilt Pot Holders book … plus the newest Quilts and More magazine … which I had been wanting to buy … how awesome is all that! And, the “icing on the cake” … a box of chocolates! I’m in heaven!

Thank you, Jeannie, for the beautiful pot holders and your generous gifts!

Pinwheel Sampler Quilt-Along: Block 2

2010-03-02T00:16:00.001-08:00

Week 2 pinwheel blocks for Rachel's quilt-along. These are SO easy and fun to make! They are 12.5” unfinished, and there will be 16 blocks total. Four done and 12 to go!

Happy quilting!

String Challenge #2: Patriotic RBW

2010-03-02T00:11:00.001-08:00

Time to get started on my second string quilt. These are a “bunch” of strings/strips that I’ve had for years … some of them are leftover from previous projects and some were cut from fat quarters. Most of them (if not all) are novelty prints with a patriotic theme. I am SO glad that I am finally going to put them into a quilt … clearing out the old to make room for the new!

Again, I’ll be using recycled dryer sheets for foundation, but I haven’t decided on a design. I may use a white string in the middle with red strings on one side and blue on the other. Or I may use sashing and cornerstones as Kaaren @ The Painted Quilt did in her quilt here.

I’m posting this on Stacie’s It’s a String Thing Challenge; and I’m also participating in Stephanie’s No Strings Attached challenge.

Happy quilting!

Happy March 1st … and A Trip to M & L Fabrics

2010-03-01T20:35:00.001-08:00

I know, I know … I said I wasn’t going to buy anymore fabric until I finished some UFO’s, but I *needed* to buy some backing and binding fabric to finish a couple UFO’s. So yesterday I went to my favorite fabric store and found this cute 1-yard remnant. Isn’t it perfect for St. Patrick’s day? It’s by David Textiles and was only $1.98! I’m thinking of making a small table topper with it.

I also found this ADORABLE print by Darlene Zimmerman … red is my favorite color! It was also $1.98/yard so I splurged and bought two yards. Not sure what I’m going to do with it, but I just couldn’t pass it up.

Did I say that M & L Fabrics (in Anaheim, CA) is my favorite fabric store? If you live ANYWHERE in the Southern California area, it is well worth the trip.

This is a superstore of fabrics. They have every kind of fabric print and the material selection is huge, including last season’s designer fabrics. The prices are very reasonable and affordable, ranging from $1.98 for flatfolds up to $8.95 for new arrivals and popular prints.

Below, racks and racks of flatfolds … all at $1.98. But you are on your own here if you find something you want in the middle of the stack … and best to forget it if it’s at the bottom!

This store is always busy and they cut and sell TONS of yards of fabric every week. Sometimes there’ll be 6-7 cuttters … that’s all they do: cut fabric … rack ‘em and stack ‘em! One customer right after the other. I usually spend at least a couple of hours when I visit; and I’ve met some really neat folks … lots of quilters! They’ve been around for over 20 years and I hope they continue for another 20!

The days are getting longer, and daylight savings time is two weeks away … does that mean Spring is almost here? Still raining and snowing in some parts of the country … but I see the light at the end of the tunnel!

Happy quilting!

More Quilts for Kids

2010-02-28T23:09:00.001-08:00

Finally finished the Touch of Comfort quilt for Quilts for Kids. I named it “Jumpin’ Frogs”, and it is now on its return trip.

I didn’t manage to salvage enough fabric from the kit for the binding so I used a black/white check fabric from my stash. I think it goes well with the black/white striped inner border.

Check out the twin quilt by Kim @ Stillmeadow Quilting … it’s the exact same kit! I’m happy to see that other quilters have ordered a quilt kit to piece and quilt that will bring a smile to a sick child.

This was such an easy and quick design that I made a second quilt (below) to send along with the Jumpin’ Frogs quilt.

I’m planning to request a second kit soon, and I will again add a second quilt to go along. The Touch of Comfort program with Quilts for Kids has a goal of 10,000 quilts by the end of the year. Interested in helping? Click here for more info.

Sew and Tell Friday: Tillie’s Treasures

2010-02-26T16:17:00.001-08:00

This is another Nickel Quilt using fabrics from my stash. I’ve had some of these fabrics for YEARS and I am so trying to use them all up. They are so outdated, but I promised myself I’d use up these old yucky fabrics before I bought more fabric. I can’t wait to add to my stash and buy some of the lovely new fabric lines …

I’ve made several quilts from Pat Speth’s Nickel Quilt books, but I must say this one was quite the challenge. It was my problem child! The technique was not difficult, but cutting & sewing all those 2.5” squares and half-square triangles was time consuming … not to mention that I had to be careful when sewing the blocks together (yes, Mr. Seam Ripper was never too far away).

Of course, I was in a hurry to finish … too bad I made a mistake when I laid out the design and didn’t notice until after I had sewn several rows. Oh, no! Had to “unsew” everything then lay it out right, and then sew it all up again. I was fed up! So I put it away for a few weeks and finally, finally finished it up this morning. I machine-quilted it myself with an all-over meander/loopy design. It still needs binding, but I’ll do that over the weekend. And, I used a thrift-store twin sheet for the backing … it was like-new and it worked out pretty good!

In spite of everything, I’m pretty happy with how it turned out. I’m linking up to Amy's fun Sew and Tell Fridays. Amy has some very cute bags that she made and don’t forget to check out what everyone else has done.

Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along

2010-02-22T20:19:00.001-08:00

Here are the first two blocks of my Pinwheel Sampler, which I’m making as part of the quilt-along hosted by Rachel of p.s. i quilt. I love pinwheels so I know this’ll be fun to make.

I’m using the following fabrics from my stash. I love the bright color combo: pink, green and orange with yellow as an accent.

The colors don’t show up well because I took this pic in the evening, but I can’t wait to see the finished quilt. Here’s Rachel’s sample:

The quilt-along will take 12 weeks so there’s no pressure or stress in making this. This is the first week and the first two blocks so there’s still time to join the fun! Rachel has a great tutorial … here’s the link to block one. Also, be sure to check out the flickr pool for inspiration!

TTFN!

Wrapped In Hope … Quilt for Gabriella

2010-02-16T00:38:00.001-08:00

Margaret's Hope Chest is a non-profit quilting organization that provides birthday quilts for children of prisoners across the country.

Gabriella is a 'Wrapped in Hope' child from California and her birthday is March 2! She likes pink, purple, and black and Disney Princesses so I made this quilt especially for her. I finished this today; it just needs a label and it’s ready to go!

The border fabric is pink and has an all-over design with Princess and crowns. I used pink and purple fabrics with lime green and black fabrics for accent. I also used a fabric with butterflies and pink/purple colors.

I was fortunate to find this Disney Princess fabric at Wal-Mart and purchased what was left on the bolt: 1.5 yards so I had to piece it. It shows blue in the picture above but it is actually a lavender background.

I also signed up to make a quilt for Christian … another ‘Wrapped In Hope’ child from California. His birthday is in June and he likes Spiderman, books and Mickey Mouse. I already have the Spiderman fabric so I’ll be working on a design for his quilt, but I have a few months to work on it.

Click on the button above for quilt pictures

Happy Valentine’s Day!

2010-02-14T00:25:00.001-08:00

How Do I Love Thee?

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of every day's
Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love with a passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.

I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.

My DH and I are spending the day with my BFF Vivian at her cousin’s home for his Lasagna Party … good friends, good eating and good weather … we are blessed!

Wishing you a Happy Valentine’s Day!

WIP: Quilts For Kids … Touch of Comfort

2010-02-13T22:17:00.001-08:00

A couple days ago I posted about the kit I received from Quilts For Kids. Since everything was already pre-cut, there was nothing to it but to sew it. The top was so fast and easy … took only a few hours to complete. Aren’t the whimsical frogs so cute? And I really like how the black & white striped inner border adds a little pizzazz to the design.

By the way, the backing IS included in the kit so all that’s left is the quilting and binding. Should be finished within the next couple of days.

Request your Touch of Comfort quilt kit here.

Yellow & Blue Quillow & Texas Two-Step

2010-02-13T21:54:00.001-08:00

Last week I went to my favorite fabric store, M & L Fabrics in Anaheim, CA. I was almost ready to leave when I ran into my pal Mary. Although we regularly email, I had not seen Mary for about a year. In fact, one of the last times I’d seen Mary was at M & L Fabrics, when I purchased this fabric to make her a quillow for her birthday … in 2008!

For one reason or another, I never made the quillow and always felt bad because I’d promised it to her. When I ran into her last week, I knew I had to make the quillow without further delay … and here it is!

Quillows were all the rage many years ago, and I remember everyone was making quillows. Quillows are actually fairly easy & fun to make and take only a few hours to complete. The one I made here is a basic design, but you can make a patchwork pillow sleeve with quilt blocks, or add a ruffle to the outside. Here are some links for instructions to make your own:

Quiltbug.com/Quillow

Fiber Fantasies/Make A Quilt In A Pillow

Capital Quilts/Make a Quillow

This is my pal Mary with the quilt I gave her for Christmas 2007. It’s called the “Texas Two-Step: Down the Line” and the pattern is from Simple Strategies for Scrap Quilts. Mary and I will be meeting up again in a couple of weeks so I can give her her quillow. Mary, I hope you like your quillow!

Happy quilting!

Quilts For Kids … Kit Arrived!

2010-02-11T18:33:00.001-08:00

Look what came in the mail today … a quilt kit from Quilts for Kids, a non-profit organization that provides comfort quilts for hospitalized children. They recently partnered with P&G’s Downy brand; and Quilts for Kids receives 5 cents for every purchase of specially marked Downy. The program is called the Downy Touch of Comfort.

The kit provides all the fabric for the top and is already precut into squares and strips. It even includes a nice woven label. How cool is that!

You do need to provide the batting plus backing. And, once completed, you’ll need to provide postage to return the quilt. The quilts will then be distributed to seriously ill children all over the country. Here’s a sample picture:

The March issue of The Quilter Magazine features an article explaining the importance of the Downy Touch of Comfort Program to seriously ill children all over the country. This program has enabled Quilts for Kids to create over 10,000 quilt kits to send to quilters across the country.

For more information or to request a kit, click Quilts For Kids to link to their website or click on the buttons below: